Laying the foundation
The first two years consist primarily of course work, distinguished by an inter-disciplinary approach and an early emphasis on in-depth training in the basic disciplines underlying management (such as economics, behavioural sciences, research methodology, etc.).
Many classes are video-conferenced between campuses for a unique two-continent educational experience. Some courses assign projects or assignments to be completed during the course, others conclude with an examination or project work.
The year is divided into five teaching periods of eight weeks (7.5 weeks of course work followed by an examination period), allowing ample time for reading and reflection. The summer period is largely devoted to research and study. All instruction is in English.
The core curriculum is composed of a set of four required core courses that are common to all fields of specialisation. In addition to the core course requirements, each field of specialisation lists a set of requirements, which must be met by students to qualify in that field. Refer to the PhD website for the complete list: https://www.insead.edu/phd/academics
In very exceptional circumstances, candidates may be exempt from certain courses in which they can demonstrate extensive knowledge. Alternative work is usually proposed in such cases.
Research Paper
The second year entails a transition to original research, and a key component is the second- year research paper. This should be a single- authored piece of work with the potential for publication. In the beginning of the year, the student should settle on a topic and faculty to work with; by the end of the year, the student should have a draft, to be completed over the summer. Close guidance is provided by a faculty advisor.
Each student must also give a presentation of the research paper to faculty members. The final paper is read by two INSEAD professors, who give it a pass or fail grade.
Field comprehensive exam
The comprehensive exam tests breadth and depth of knowledge acquired through the first two years of coursework. The exact format of the examination varies according to the area of specialisation, but will generally involve both written and oral elements.
Years 3 to 5
PhD candidacy
The PhD Committee, consisting of INSEAD faculty (from all areas of specialisation), ultimately determines whether students who have met all the requirements for the first two years (coursework, field comprehensive examination, and research paper) as well as ascertaining the student’s potential to conduct scholarly research and complete a dissertation, can advance to full PhD candidacy.
Research and dissertation proposal
Dissertation research begins immediately on admission to PhD candidacy. Each student works towards defining a topic, in consultation with faculty members, and forms a Dissertation Committee. This consists of at least four faculty members, three of whom must be INSEAD resident faculty.
Under the close supervision of a faculty advisor, each student prepares a dissertation proposal for submission to their Dissertation Committee. The proposal defines both the precise topic and the methodology of research. Approval of the proposal is a requirement for entry to the fourth year, by the end of which and until the fifth year, some students will complete their dissertations.
Submission and defense of the
dissertation
The dissertation is the culmination of doctoral study. It is intended to represent independent and original research work of a publishable standard. Students are expected to complete and submit it during their fourth or fifth year.
Permission to defend the dissertation must first be granted by the Dissertation Committee. Following the oral defense, which is open to all INSEAD faculty and PhD students, the Dissertation Committee will meet again to determine whether any revisions are required. Once these have been implemented, the Dissertation Committee will grant their full approval via a written report to the PhD Committee. If the quality of the dissertation is deemed acceptable, the PhD Committee makes a final recommendation to the Academic Director to award the degree. It is a necessarily rigorous and demanding process in keeping with the reputation of the INSEAD PhD in Management.
Award of the PhD degree
Following the recommendation of the PhD Committee, the Academic Director grants the degree on behalf of the entire INSEAD faculty. The degree is awarded by INSEAD, under its own name and responsibility, at an end-of year ceremony. It is an occasion for successful graduates to celebrate with friends, family, faculty and colleagues, before moving on to an exciting new career.
Throughout the programme
Teaching practicum
While research training will be central to your education at INSEAD, teaching as a scholarly activity is an important component to your overall education and preparation for your future career as a professor. You will have the opportunity to learn effective tools and skills for disseminating the knowledge you will be creating during the programme through a formal teaching practicum conducted during your doctoral study.
Teaching and soft skills training
PhD students may be offered workshops in skills such as writing, presenting and applying for academic jobs. There is also a teaching practicum requirement, along with other training sessions, in addition to possible opportunities to assist on the course or another pedagogical exercise with INSEAD degree and executive education programmes and external institutions, as well.
Performance reviews
Performance reviews are carried out by the PhD Committee, consisting of INSEAD faculty, at the end of each year. The purpose is to determine whether sufficient progress is being made and to give constructive feedback.